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QR Codes in the Retail Industry

Shelf-ready packaging is getting smarter. Learn how to embed richer data for clearer, retail ready solutions.

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2D codes (QR and Data matrix) are transforming the way retailers, brands and consumers connect. By linking physical products to digital information, 2D codes provide instant access to product details, promotions, authentication, traceability data, sustainability information, and personalized experiences with just one scan. As the retail industry prepares for the transition to next generation QR codes powered by GS1 (GS1 Digital Link), retailers are already adopting this technology to improve customer engagement, strengthen brand trust, enhance inventory management, and unlock valuable consumer insights.

Discover how QR codes can help retailers create smarter shopping experiences while meeting evolving consumer and regulatory requirements. With decades of expertise supporting the adoption of 2D codes across highly regulated industries, Domino can help guide your retail business through every stage of planning, implementation, and long-term success.

Why retailers are moving to GS1 QR codes

Led by GS1’s Sunrise initiative, retailers are preparing to scan QR codes at point of sale, alongside or replacing traditional barcodes.

This shift enables:

  • A single code containing the GTIN plus additional variable data
  • Better interoperability across supply chains, reducing waste
  • Smarter retail operations and richer consumer experiences
Learn about a practical 2D Code roadmap for Food Manufacturers
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From static barcodes to intelligent packaging

Traditional barcodes were built for price lookup.
GS1 QR codes powered by GS1 are built for modern retail.

Domino’s proven experience in applying 2D codes in retail and regulated industries, such as pharmaceutical, for decades enables us to advise on:

  • Precision printing at speed
  • Variable data at scale
  • Inline inspection and verification
  • Confidence that every code works, everywhere
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Unlock the benefits of a QR code powered by GS1

See every product, everywhere

GS1-powered, QR codes enable real-time visibility across manufacturing, distribution and retail, improving traceability, recalls and operational confidence.

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Make sustainability scannable

One QR code can connect consumers to recycling guidance, sourcing information and sustainability credentials, without adding clutter to the pack.

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Reduce waste with smarter data

Expiry dates and batch-level information support better stock rotation, fewer markdowns and less food waste across the supply chain.

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Protect your brand

Unique, serialised GS1-powered, QR codes help authenticate products, deter counterfeiting and build trust in high-value categories.

From source to shelf

GS1 QR codes powered by GS1 support end-to-end traceability, helping retailers respond faster to recalls, compliance needs and product safety events.

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Create digital experiences

QR codes unlock brand-controlled digital experiences – from product stories to personalised content and measurable consumer insights.

Clearer packaging. Stronger brands.

As on-pack information requirements grow, space becomes harder to manage. GS1-powered, QR codes solve this by moving information off the label and into a scan.

  • Cleaner packaging
  • Improved brand presence
  • A better consumer experience without compromising compliance
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Benefits across the supply chain

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Consumer Product & Promotional Information

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Stock Management & Customer Insight Information

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Product Serial Numbers & Consumer Engagement

Not all QR codes are retail-ready

Common QR code risks include:

  • Codes that look right but don’t scan
    Poor cell size, contrast or error correction can break scanning at POS.
  • Packaging and material challenges
    Curves, films, foils and chilled environments demand specialist print expertise.
  • No end-to-end verification
    Codes must scan consistently across the entire supply chain.

Domino eliminates these risks with printing and verified QR code powered by GS1

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Trusted expertise from the world’s most regulated industries

Domino supports some of the most demanding traceability environments in the world.

We don’t just supply technology, we partner with retailers and their supplier base to get 2D codes right first time.

  • Precision printing at speed
  • Variable data at scale
  • Inline inspection and verification
  • Confidence that every code works, everywhere
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The QR Code Revolution

 

Learn more about Domino can help your printing capabilities

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Manufacturing and packaging considerations when printing GS1 2D codes

Learn about practical manufacturing considerations when printing GS1 Codes >

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The Essential Data to Include in a QR Code Powered by GS1

Learn more about what data to include in a QR Code powered by GS1 >

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Choose the right technology to print variable data 2D codes

Read our Whitepaper about 2D Codes on Retail Packaging >

Are your printing capabilities ready for QR in Retail?

The move to GS1 QR codes is inevitable.
Getting it right is a choice.

Partner with Domino to deliver GS1-powered, verified QR codes that work across every line, every pack and every scan.

Book a 2D Readiness Call

FAQs

What’s the difference between a standard barcode and a GS1-powered QR code?

Traditional 1D barcodes carry static data, typically just a product identifier.

GS1-powered, QR codes can carry the GTIN plus variable, dynamic data such as batch numbers, expiry dates and web-linked information – all in one compact code that works across point of sale, supply chain and consumer use cases.

Do GS1-powered, QR codes work at point of sale today?

Yes. GS1-powered, QR codes are designed to be POS-ready as retailers upgrade scanning infrastructure ahead of GS1 Sunrise 2027.

The key is ensuring codes are printed and verified correctly, so they scan reliably at checkout as well as across the wider supply chain.

Is implementing GS1-powered, QR codes just a packaging change?

No. Implementing GS1-powered QR codes are a print, data and process transformation, not simply adding a new symbol to packaging.

Print quality, cell size, contrast, substrates and end-to-end verification all affect whether a code scans successfully, which is why the right technology and expertise are essential.

How does Domino help retailers and suppliers get this right?

Domino brings proven expertise from highly regulated industries such as pharmaceuticals and tobacco, where variable data, traceability and verification are critical.

We work with retailers and their supplier networks to deliver GS1-compliant, verified QR codes that scan everywhere – at speed, at scale and with confidence.

Need more information?

Contact us about our innovative and award-winning printing and marking solutions.

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